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Indians targeting Chisenhall return next month

Indians targeting Chisenhall return next month

SEATTLE -- Lonnie Chisenhall is determined to return to the team before this season expires. So far, the Indians third baseman has impressed the Tribe's medical staff in his effort to meet that goal.

"Chisenhall is progressing beautifully," Indians head athletic trainer Lonnie Soloff said on Tuesday.

Soloff added that Chisenhall's progress from a fractured right forearm is going well enough that Cleveland expects to be able to send him out on a rehab assignment during the Minor League postseason. The goal would be to get the third baseman prepped for a possible return to the Tribe at some point in September.

"That's been his goal since the injury," Soloff said. "He's really dedicated himself 110 percent to his recovery. He's done a nice job with it."

Chisenhall recently indicated that he is also considering playing winter ball.

During the Indians' upcoming 10-game homestand, which begins on Tuesday, Chisenhall will likely progress to taking part in batting practice, baserunning and limited infield drills. Soloff said the initial infield activites would probably include throws across the diamond from third base.

Chisenhall, 23, was struck on the right forearm by an errant fastball from Orioles pitcher Troy Patton on June 29. The third baseman hit .278 with three homers and nine RBIs in his 24 games with Cleveland from May 28-June 29, but he had hit .342 (13-for-38) in the 13 games leading up to the injury.